2014

If your 2014 resolution is to invest in your future, a new home may be the way to go. Whether you are looking for more space for your family or you are ready to downsize, purchasing this year could make the most sense.

Evaluate your situation
Decide if looking for a new home is right for you this year. It may not be the right choice for everyone, but ask yourself if you have outgrown your current abode, if you are tired of maintaining a large residence or if it is time to make your next real estate investment.

Explore what works for your lifestyle
Figuring out where you want to reside is the first step. If you are buying for the first time, decide how much space you will need long term and what size property you feel most comfortable owning. If investing, decide if this will be your vacation home, or strictly an income property, and what that means for you. Make sure you consider future appreciation in the area.

Start looking
Take the plunge and scout out your potential purchasing areas. Ask yourself if you want to stay in the same school district or community. If so, start there. But remember, being open to a few areas may help you find your next dream home at the most affordable price.

Making the decision
When it comes time to buy, you will know. Making a big purchase can be intimidating, but you have done your due diligence, you know what you want, and you are ready to dive in. Whatever your resolutions are for the new year, we at Shea Homes wish you the best as you pursue your goals.

If you have questions about any Shea Homes Northern California communities, specific homes or floor plans, or wish to inquire about mortgage and loan options please visit our website and chat with one of our Online Sales Consultants.

This time of year, people all over the world are thinking about their hopes for the new year. Is that you? And if so, have you started setting real, achievable goals for yourself? Whether it’s buying a house for the first time, quitting smoking, running a marathon (or just running a mile), or growing closer to a friend or family member, according to current research, setting goals can make all the difference in making your dreams a reality.

There is nothing magical about January 1, but for some reason, for many, the New Year is a great opportunity to get a fresh start in working towards those dreams. But what is the best way to make those resolutions stick and to actually achieve your goals in 2014?

We know you’re busy, so we did a little research and found some of the top tips from the experts:

1) Keep them simple

When setting goals for the New Year, try to keep them from becoming overly complicated. Set a few goals that are realistic, achievable and that you feel positive about. For you, that may mean setting one goal or it may mean setting five goals instead of ten. The key is remaining positive and not becoming overwhelmed. No one can do it all, so be picky and consider what will make your life the most happier, healthier and satisfying.

2) Keep them measurable

Set goals that can be measured, but don’t get overburdened with measuring up. Do you want to get healthier or lose weight? Instead of setting a goal to lose 15 pounds, try measuring health by a different standard. Set a goal to eat fruits and vegetables with each meal. Your body will love the nutrients and you can feel that sense of accomplishment without being a slave to the scale.

3) Keep to your plan

After you set your goals and make a measurable plan for achieving them, stick to it! People who achieve their goals, are often the ones who write them down and stay mindful of them. Write out your plan and find a place to display it where you will see it every day. You can even make a collage filled with quotes or pictures that remind you why you want to achieve your goals.

4) Keep them to yourself

While it might seem counter-intuitive, recent studies show that telling the world about your new found life plan might actually make you less likely to achieve it. One explanation is that telling others can give you a false sense of achievement and it may lessen your motivation to move forward with your plan. On the other hand, if you can find someone who is like minded to work together with—a committed work-out buddy, for example—studies show you might have a better shot at sticking with it. In summary, be sure to walk the walk, not just talk the talk.

5) Keep celebrating your achievements

As you stick to your plan and meet some of the smaller goals leading to the big goals, don’t forget to celebrate! Plan on rewarding yourself as you go along. Did you meet a savings goal for the month? Splurge a little the next time you go out to eat. Remind yourself that goals are meant to improve your life, not squeeze out the fun.

We hope this is a great year for you! For more inspiration and tips on achieving specific goals in 2014, check out our Pinterest Board “Keeping Those New Year’s Resolutions.” And if your goal is to buy a new house this year, stay tuned for a post all about making that dream a reality! You can also follow us on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube for updates on new Shea Homes communities around the Valley of the Sun.